Pelosi recorded a video for Berman that the congressman played at a fundraiser he hosted last month held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, which was attended by Hollywood heavyweights like Steven Spielberg and David Geffen. In the video, Pelosi doesn't use the words "endorse" or "support," but she makes it pretty clear that she's fond of Berman.

"Howard knows the issues and stands firm on his principles. He knows Congress and delivers for his district and his constituents. Thank you, Congressman Berman for strengthening our country," Pelosi said in the video, according to a transcript of the remarks provided to POLITICO.

Jennifer Crider, a Pelosi spokeswoman, cautioned not to interpret the video as an endorsement.

"I wouldn't read anything into it, Leader Pelosi does video greetings for members all the time," Crider said.

But it's not the first sign of where Pelosi's sentiments probably lie. Last month, Berman secured the endorsements of several top Pelosi California allies, including Reps. George Miller and Xavier Becerra. While Berman has won the backing of more than two-thirds of the state's Democratic delegation, Sherman has no public congressional endorsements.

And it would surprise few if Pelosi does ultimately line up behind Berman. Both have been major figures in California politics for over three decades, and have a relationship that stretches back to the 1970s.